Vint Hill Fall Festival Sees Excellent Turnout

Posted on November 20, 2015 by Admin

The first annual Vint Hill Fall Festival drew approximately 4,000 people together in a new seasonal tradition celebrating local businesses and the historic chapters of the Vint Hill property in a community-unifying event. All proceeds from the event, held September 26, benefit Leadership Fauquier, a local nonprofit organization that builds leaders in the community.

Thanks to the event’s 15 sponsors, the historic property and former Army base was transformed into a walkable street festival complete with 100 vendors and food trucks and 14 live performers. The Fall Festival’s goal was to showcase Vint Hill both as a vibrant business district and cozy, family-friendly community. Organizers had initially planned for 50 vendors and 2,000 attendees; the event doubled those expectations.

“We are beyond impressed with the dedication and excitement of everyone who came out to the festival,” said Ed Moore, president of Vint Hill Village, LLC. “It was more successful than anything we had dreamed of. It’s clear that this is something the community is interested in, so we’re going to work hard to make it an unforgettable annual tradition.”

Businesses in the master-planned, mixed-use community capitalized on the festival’s popularity. Vint Hill Craft Winery experienced more than double their regular sales.

“I know several of us had a blockbuster day,” said Jennifer Goldman, general manager of the winery. “We had feedback all weekend long from people who had such a great time at the event.”

Kathy Holster, owner of Green Maple Market, agreed. “It was really fun and exciting to welcome so many people to our community. What an extraordinary day for my little place!”

Event organizers stayed true to their commitment to a family-friendly experience: children of all ages enjoyed a honeybee demonstration by Sweet Virginia, an educational nonprofit based in Reston. A variety of animals from Ponies Plus and Half Moon Petting Zoo also joined the scene.

Throughout the day, 14 entertainment groups performed from two stages. Guests appreciated acts like the Fauquier Community Band and a short performance from Fauquier Community Theater’s cast of Mary Poppins, which opened at the theater on October 2. Colleen Shumaker, emcee for the Main Stage on Aiken Drive, was impressed by the various local performers.

“Our community is bursting with talent! A festival like this is the perfect way for neighbors to see and support the local arts,” said Shumaker. “The day was a celebration of all the fantastic offerings in Fauquier County.”

Plans are already underway for next year’s Vint Hill Fall Festival, which will be held on September 24, 2016. Families can expect even more vendors, food trucks and entertainment selections.

“More than anything, we are happy to give our proceeds to Leadership Fauquier, which is doing amazing things for our community,” Moore said. “Good things are happening, and I’m humbled to be a part of it.”

For photos of the festival visit check out the album on Vint Hill’s Facebook.

For more information about reserving space as a vendor, entertainer or sponsor in next year’s Fall Festival, email info@vinthillfallfestival.com.